Moving from Austin to Fort Lauderdale (2026)
Fort Lauderdale has a COL index of 120 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.
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Key differences
Salary needed in Fort Lauderdale to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Fort Lauderdale |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,344 |
| $50K | $49,180 |
| $60K | $59,016 |
| $75K | $73,770 |
| $80K | $78,689 |
| $100K | $98,361 |
| $120K | $118,033 |
| $150K | $147,541 |
💵 Household income (before tax)
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Fort Lauderdale
| Expense | Austin | Fort Lauderdale |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $2,600 |
| Groceries | $372 | $407 |
| Transport | $50 | $112 |
| Utilities | $170 | $195 |
| Internet | $65 | $70 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $1,357 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fort Lauderdale cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Fort Lauderdale has a cost of living index of 120 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Fort Lauderdale?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fort Lauderdale run about $800/month more than Austin. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Fort Lauderdale to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $73,770/year in Fort Lauderdale. This is based on the overall COL index difference.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only